My glimpse into a childless world (Spectator/9 Nov 2024)

The Spectator explores (archive) the global trend of declining birth rates and aging populations, highlighting the quiet, empty towns that symbolize this shift. In South Korea, Jeju Island exemplifies the issue with its rapidly aging population and a fertility rate below one child per woman. Once vibrant with young haenyeo divers, Jeju now faces school closures and a predominantly elderly populace, reflecting a broader demographic crisis that could impact economic and social stability as fewer young people replace the aging generations.